Contractor’s Health & Safety Assessment Scheme
The Contractor’s Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) is one of the UK’s most recognised accreditation schemes for contractors and suppliers. Established in 1997 by health and safety professionals and the Association of London Government, CHAS was designed to create a single, nationally recognised standard for health and safety compliance across multiple industries.
What Is CHAS Accreditation?
Before CHAS existed, the process of approving contractors for public and private projects was inconsistent and time-consuming. Each organisation had its own safety requirements, forcing contractors to submit repetitive documentation and applications.
CHAS introduced a centralised pre-qualification system that allows contractors to prove their compliance with essential health and safety standards recognised by hundreds of UK buyers, including local authorities, NHS trusts, housing associations, and private firms.
Today, CHAS remains a trusted benchmark for competence and compliance. More than 500 registered buyers across the UK accept CHAS accreditation as proof that a contractor meets legal requirements under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM).
Benefits of Registering With CHAS
1. Streamlined Pre-Qualification
Once accredited, contractors no longer need to complete multiple health and safety forms for each project. CHAS certification proves compliance to all participating buyers, saving time and effort.
2. Increased Competitiveness
CHAS registration helps contractors and sub-contractors in construction, facilities management, engineering, care, catering, and consultancy stand out when tendering for work. It signals professionalism, reliability, and compliance.
3. Time and Cost Savings
By meeting a single set of CHAS standards, contractors reduce duplicated effort, paperwork, and administrative costs — freeing up resources to focus on winning contracts and delivering quality work.
4. Builds Buyer Trust
CHAS-accredited contractors are viewed as low-risk, competent suppliers. Buyers can verify compliance through the CHAS portal, simplifying procurement and reducing delays.
5. Access to Expert Health & Safety Guidance
CHAS members gain access to specialist advice and resources to help improve workplace safety policies and documentation — especially valuable for small businesses without dedicated H&S teams.
How to Apply for CHAS Certification
The CHAS application process is fully online, making it simple and accessible to businesses of all sizes — from sole traders to large organisations.
- Health and Safety Policy Review – CHAS assessors review your company’s health and safety policy to ensure it meets national standards.
- Organisation Assessment – The structure, responsibilities, and safety culture of your organisation are evaluated.
- Arrangements Evaluation – CHAS checks that your practical arrangements meet buyer-accepted safety criteria.
If your business doesn’t yet meet the required standards, CHAS provides guidance and feedback to help you achieve compliance. Once approved, your company appears in the CHAS database, giving you visibility to hundreds of pre-qualified buyers.
Why CHAS Matters
Health and safety compliance is a legal and moral responsibility for every contractor. CHAS simplifies compliance, boosts reputation, and increases access to public and private sector opportunities.
Whether you work in construction, engineering, care, or consultancy, CHAS accreditation helps your business grow, demonstrate competence, and win more contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions About CHAS
What does CHAS stand for?
CHAS stands for the Contractor’s Health and Safety Assessment Scheme, a UK-wide accreditation that verifies contractors meet essential health and safety standards recognised by public and private sector buyers.
Who needs CHAS accreditation?
CHAS accreditation is suitable for any contractor, supplier, or consultant who works with organisations requiring verified health and safety compliance — including those in construction, maintenance, facilities management, healthcare, and engineering.
How long does CHAS certification last?
CHAS certification is valid for 12 months. To remain accredited, contractors must renew annually and keep their health and safety documentation up to date.
What are the benefits of being CHAS-approved?
Being CHAS-approved improves your company’s credibility, saves time on tenders, helps win new contracts, and ensures compliance with UK health and safety laws such as the CDM Regulations.